Skin lightening compositions

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are compositions and methods for their use that include a combination of Leontopodium alpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetable amino acids, niacinamide, hexylresorcinol, Pinus pinaster extract, Betula alba extract, Albizia julibrissin bark extract, hydrolyzed Candida saitoana extract, Lentinus edodes mycelium extract, and/or Opuntia tuna fruit extract.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/640,328, filed Mar. 6, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/950,517 filed Mar. 10, 2014, and U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/088,812 filed Dec. 8, 2014. The contentsof the referenced applications are incorporated into the presentapplication by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to compositions that can be usedto improve the skin's visual appearance. In certain aspects, thecompositions of the present invention can include, for example, acombination of ingredients to whiten skin, even out skin color, or treathyperpigmentation. This combination of ingredients can be included in awide-range of product formulations (e.g., serums, eye creams, toners,gels, masks, etc.).

B. Description of Related Art

The color in human skin is caused by the pigment melanin. Melanin isproduced in special dendritic cells, melanocytes, which are found belowor between the basal cells of the epidermis of the skin (U.S. Pat. No.5,411,741). When exposed to damaging environmental factors such theultra violet (UV) radiation of the sun, irritants, and pollution, thekeratinocyte (outermost cell of the skin) releases signaling molecules,such as α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), and inflammatorycytokines. These hormones trigger melanocytes to produce melanin(Garcia-Borron et al., 2005).

Typical pigmentation is characterized by an even, uniform coloration ofthe skin. Many individuals have excess melanin pigmentation or ahyperpigmentation patch which can cause pigmentary variation or abnormalpigmentation of the skin. This may lead to unwanted freckles or darkspots such as senile lentigo, liver spots, melasma, brown or age spots,vitiligo, sunburn pigmentation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation dueto abrasion, burns, wounds or dermatitis, phototoxic reaction and othersimilar small, fixed pigmented lesions. It is often desirable to lightenthese areas or even out the appearance of irregularly pigmented areas ofskin. Individuals may also wish to increase fairness or reduce theoverall level of pigmentation in the skin. In either case, thehyperpigmentation is usually viewed as cosmetically undesirable andindividuals often wish to lighten the skin.

In some instances, the use of one skin lightening ingredient may not beeffective for individuals with significant hyperpigmentation, freckles,or age spots, for example. Additionally, previous attempts to combinevarious skin lightening ingredients have been ineffective, and in someinstance, have produced negative results (Talwar 1993).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention overcomes deficiencies in the art by providing aneffective and natural alternative to lighten skin, reduce the appearanceof uneven skin tone, and/or treat melasmic skin. The solution ispremised on a discovery of a combination of ingredients—Leontopodiumalpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetable amino acids,niacinamide, hexylresorcinol, Pinus pinaster extract, Betula albaextract, Albizia julibrissin bark extract, hydrolyzed Candida saitoanaextract, Lentinus edodes mycelium extract, and/or Opuntia tuna fruitextract—that can be used for improving the skin's visual appearance,whitening or lightening the skin's color or tone, treatinghyperpigmentation and other related disorders, and evening out aperson's skin tone. This combination of ingredients can be used in avariety of product formulations (e.g., toners, cleansers, emulsions suchas lotions or creams, masks, gels, etc.).

In one instance, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising an effective amount of a combination of Leontopodium alpinumextract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetable amino acids, andniacinamide. Alternatively, one or any combination said ingredients canbe used in the compositions of the present invention. The amounts of theingredients within the composition can vary (e.g., amounts can be as lowas 0.000001% to as high as 80% w/w or any range therein). In oneinstance, the composition includes 0.001 to 0.1% by weight ofLeontopodium alpinum extract, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight of Halidryssiliquosa extract, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight of vegetable amino acids, and 1to 5% by weight of niacinamide. In some aspects, the composition furthercomprises water. In one instance, the composition includes 70 to 80% byweight of water. In some aspects, disclosed are methods of applying anyof the topical skin compositions disclosed herein comprising applyingsaid composition to skin. In some aspects, disclosed are methods oflightening skin, reducing the appearance of uneven skin tone, ortreating melasmic skin comprising applying an effective amount of any ofthe topical skin compositions disclosed herein to skin.

In another aspect, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising any one of, any combination of, or all of Leontopodiumalpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetable amino acids,niacinamide, hexylresorcinol, Pinus pinaster extract, and Betula albaextract. The amounts of the ingredients within the composition can vary(e.g., amounts can be as low as 0.000001% to as high as 60% w/w or anyrange therein). In one instance, the composition includes 0.001 to 0.1%by weight of Leontopodium alpinum extract, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight ofHalidrys siliquosa extract, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight of vegetable aminoacids, 1 to 5% by weight of niacinamide, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight ofhexylresorcinol, 0.001 to 0.1% by weight of Pinus pinaster extract, and0.001 to 0.1% by weight of Betula alba extract. In some aspects, thecomposition further comprises water. In one instance, the compositionincludes 70 to 80% by weight of water. In some embodiments, thecomposition further includes butylene glycol, glycerin, silica,cyclopentasiloxane, dimethicone, disodium EDTA, caprylyl glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin; and potassium sorbate. In oneinstance, the composition includes those ingredients in the followingamounts: 3 to 6% by weight of butylene glycol, 3 to 6% by weight ofglycerin, 1 to 5% by weight of silica, 1 to 4% by weight ofcyclopentasiloxane, 1 to 3% by weight of dimethicone, 0.1 to 0.5% byweight of disodium EDTA, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of caprylyl glycol, 0.1to 0.5% by weight of 1, 2-hexanediol, 0.01 to 0.5% by weight ofhydroxypropyl cyclodextrin, and 0.001 to 0.05% by weight of potassiumsorbate. In another instance, the composition further includes ammoniumacryloyldimethyltaurate/VP copolymer, polysorbate 20, acrylates/C10-30alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, triethanolamine, and xanthan gum. In yetanother instance, the composition includes the those ingredients in thefollowing amounts: 0.1 to 1% by weight of ammoniumacryloyldimethyltaurate/VP copolymer, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight ofpolysorbate 20, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylatecrosspolymer, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of triethanolamine, and 0.01 to 0.2%by weight of xanthan gum.

In another aspect, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising any one of, any combination of, or all of Leontopodiumalpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetable amino acids,niacinamide, and Albizia julibrissin bark extract. The amounts of theingredients within the composition can vary (e.g., amounts can be as lowas 0.000001% to as high as 60% w/w or any range therein). In oneinstance, the composition includes 0.001 to 0.1% by weight ofLeontopodium alpinum extract, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight of Halidryssiliquosa extract, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight of vegetable amino acids, 1 to5% by weight of niacinamide, and 0.5 to 2.0% by weight of Albiziajulibrissin bark extract. In some aspects, the composition furthercomprises water. In one instance, the composition includes 70 to 80% byweight of water. In some embodiments, the composition further includesglycerin, dimethicone, octyldodecanol, triethanolamine, polyacrylamide,disodium EDTA, laureth-7, cyclohexasiloxane, sodium benzoate, andiodopropynyl butylcarbamate. In one instance, the composition includesthose ingredients in the following amounts: 8 to 15% by weight ofglycerin, 3 to 6% by weight of dimethicone, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight ofoctyldodecanol, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight of tirethanolamine, 0.1 to 1.5% byweight of polyacrylamide, 0.01 to 0.2% by weight of disodium EDTA, 0.01to 0.2% by weight of laureth-7, 0.01 to 0.2% by weight ofcyclohexasiloxane, 0.001 to 0.2% by weight of sodium benzoate, and 0.001to 0.2% by weight of iodopropynyl butylcarbamate.

In another aspect, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising any one of, any combination of, or all of Leontopodiumalpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetable amino acids,niacinamide, and hydrolyzed Candida saitoana extract. The amounts of theingredients within the composition can vary (e.g., amounts can be as lowas 0.000001% to as high as 85% w/w or any range therein).

In another aspect, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising any one of, any combination of, or all of Leontopodiumalpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetable amino acids,niacinamide, and Lentinus edodes mycelium extract. The amounts of theingredients within the composition can vary (e.g., amounts can be as lowas 0.000001% to as high as 85% w/w or any range therein).

In another aspect, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising any one of, any combination of, or all of Leontopodiumalpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetable amino acids,niacinamide, Lentinus edodes mycelium extract, and Opuntia tuna fruitextract. The amounts of the ingredients within the composition can vary(e.g., amounts can be as low as 0.000001% to as high as 85% w/w or anyrange therein).

In another aspect, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising any one of, any combination of, or all of Leontopodiumalpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetable amino acids,and/or Opuntia tuna fruit extract. The amounts of the ingredients withinthe composition can vary (e.g., amounts can be as low as 0.000001% to ashigh as 85% w/w or any range therein).

In some embodiments, the disclosed combination of ingredients is used ina moisturizer, a face freshener, a day cream, a night cream, a clothface or eye mask, or a hydrogel mask product, a face mask, or a cleanserformulation.

Also disclosed are the following Embodiments 1 to 46 of the presentinvention. Embodiment 1 is a topical skin composition comprising aneffective amount of Leontopodium alpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosaextract, vegetable amino acids, and niacinamide, wherein the compositionis capable of whitening or lightening skin. Embodiment 2 is the topicalskin composition of Embodiment 1, comprising 0.001 to 0.1% by weight ofLeontopodium alpinum extract, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight of Halidryssiliquosa extract, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight of vegetable amino acids, and 1to 5% by weight of niacinamide. Embodiment 3 is the topical skincomposition of Embodiment 1, wherein the composition further includeswater. Embodiment 4 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 3,comprising 55 to 80% by weight of water. Embodiment 5 is the topicalskin composition of Embodiment 1, wherein the composition furtherincludes Opuntia tuna fruit extract. Embodiment 6 is the topical skincomposition of Embodiment 5, wherein the composition comprises 0.0001 to0.015% by weight of Opuntia tuna fruit extract. Embodiment 7 is thetopical skin composition of Embodiment 1, wherein the compositionfurther includes: hexylresorcinol, Pinus pinaster extract, and Betulaalba extract. Embodiment 8 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment7, wherein the composition includes: 0.1 to 0.5% by weight ofhexylresorcinol, 0.001 to 0.1% by weight of Pinus pinaster extract, and0.001 to 0.1% by weight of Betula alba extract. Embodiment 9 is thetopical skin composition of Embodiment 7, wherein the compositionfurther includes: butylene glycol, glycerin, silica, cyclopentasiloxane,dimethicone, disodium EDTA, caprylyl glycol, 1, 2-hexanediol,hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin, and potassium sorbate. Embodiment 10 is thetopical skin composition of Embodiment 9, wherein the compositionincludes: 3 to 6% by weight of butylene glycol, 3 to 6% by weight ofglycerin, 1 to 5% by weight of silica, 1 to 4% by weight ofcyclopentasiloxane, 1 to 3% by weight of dimethicone, 0.1 to 0.5% byweight of disodium EDTA, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of caprylyl glycol, 0.1to 0.5% by weight of 1, 2-hexanediol, 0.01 to 0.5% by weight ofhydroxypropyl cyclodextrin, and 0.001 to 0.05% by weight of potassiumsorbate. Embodiment 11 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 9,wherein the composition further includes: ammoniumacryloyldimethyltaurate/VP copolymer, polysorbate 20, acrylates/C10-30alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, triethanolamine, and xanthan gum.Embodiment 12 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 11, whereinthe composition includes: 0.1 to 1% by weight of ammoniumacryloyldimethyltaurate/VP copolymer, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight ofpolysorbate 20, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylatecrosspolymer, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of triethanolamine, and 0.01 to 0.2%by weight of xanthan gum. Embodiment 13 is the topical skin compositionof Embodiment 1, wherein the composition further includes Albiziajulibrissin bark extract. Embodiment 14 is the topical skin compositionof Embodiment 13, wherein the composition includes 0.5 to 2.0% by weightof Albizia julibrissin bark extract. Embodiment 15 is the topical skincomposition of Embodiment 13, wherein the composition further includes:glycerin, dimethicone, octyldodecanol, triethanolamine, polyacrylamide,disodium EDTA, laureth-7, cyclohexasiloxane, sodium benzoate, andiodopropynyl butylcarbamate. Embodiment 16 is the topical skincomposition of Embodiment 15, wherein the composition includes: 8 to 15%by weight of glycerin, 3 to 6% by weight of dimethicone, 0.1 to 1.5% byweight of octyldodecanol, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight of triethanolamine, 0.1to 1.5% by weight of polyacrylamide, 0.01 to 0.2% by weight of disodiumEDTA, 0.01 to 0.2% by weight of laureth-7, 0.01 to 0.2% by weight ofcyclohexasiloxane, 0.001 to 0.2% by weight of sodium benzoate, and 0.001to 0.2% by weight of iodopropynyl butylcarbamate. Embodiment 17 is thetopical skin composition of Embodiment 1, wherein the compositionfurther includes hydrolyzed Candida saitoana extract. Embodiment 18 isthe topical skin composition of Embodiment 1, wherein the compositionfurther includes Lentinus edodes mycelium extract. Embodiment 19 is thetopical skin composition of Embodiment 18, comprising 0.01 to 3% byweight of Lentinus edodes mycelium extract. Embodiment 20 is the topicalskin composition of Embodiment 18, wherein the composition furtherincludes: isononyl isononanoate, glycerin, octisalate, alcoholdenatured, octocrylene, avobenzone, butylene glycol, cyclopentasiloxane,cetearyl glucoside, cetyl alcohol, dimethicone, glyceryl stearate,PEG-100 stearate, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, ammoniumacryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer, magnesium aluminum silicate,xanthan gum, and disodium EDTA. Embodiment 21 is the topical skincomposition of Embodiment 20, wherein the composition includes: 3 to 9%by weight of isononyl isononanoate, 3 to 9% by weight of glycerin, 3 to9% by weight of octisalate, 2 to 8% by weight of alcohol denatured, 1 to7% by weight of octocrylene, 1 to 7% by weight of avobenzone, 0.5 to 6%by weight of butylene glycol, 0.5 to 6% by weight of cyclopentasiloxane,0.5 to 6% by weight of cetearyl glucoside, 0.1 to 4% by weight of cetylalcohol, 0.1 to 4% by weight of dimethicone, 0.1 to 4% by weight ofglyceryl stearate, 0.1 to 4% by weight of PEG-100 stearate, 0.1 to 4% byweight of phenoxyethanol, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight of caprylyl glycol, 0.1to 1.5% by weight of ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer, 0.1to 1.5% by weight of magnesium aluminum silicate, 0.1 to 0.5% by weightof xanthan gum, and 0.01 to 0.5% by weight of disodium EDTA. Embodiment22 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 18, wherein thecomposition further includes: petrolatum, glycerin, octyldodecyl oleate,pentylene glycol, hydrogenated polydecene, glyceryl stearate, arachidylalcohol, PEG-100 stearate, ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vpcopolymer, cetearyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, synthetic wax, behenylalcohol, cetearyl glucoside, microcrystalline wax/cire microcrystalline,phenoxyethanol, arachidyl glucoside, xanthan gum, ceteareth-20, disodiumEDTA, tocopheryl acetate, and triethanolamine. Embodiment 23 is thetopical skin composition of Embodiment 22, wherein the compositionincludes: 5 to 11% by weight of petrolatum, 3 to 11% by weight ofglycerin, 1 to 7% by weight of octyldodecyl oleate, 1 to 7% by weight ofpentylene glycol, 0.5 to 6% by weight of hydrogenated polydecene, 0.5 to6% by weight of glyceryl stearate, 0.1 to 4% by weight of arachidylalcohol, 0.1 to 4% by weight of PEG-100 stearate, 0.1 to 4% by weight ofammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer, 0.1 to 4% by weight ofcetearyl alcohol, 0.1 to 4% by weight of benzyl alcohol, 0.1 to 4% byweight of synthetic wax, 0.1 to 4% by weight of behenyl alcohol, 0.1 to4% by weight of cetearyl glucoside, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight ofmicrocrystalline wax/cire microcrystalline, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight ofphenoxyethanol, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight of arachidyl glucoside, 0.1 to 1%by weight of xanthan gum, 0.01 to 0.5% by weight of ceteareth-20, 0.01to 0.5% by weight of disodium EDTA, 0.01 to 0.3% by weight of tocopherylacetate, and 0.01 to 0.3% by weight of triethanolamine. Embodiment 24 isthe topical skin composition of Embodiment 18, wherein the compositionfurther includes: glycerin, butylene glycol,divinyldimethicone/dimethicone copolymer, methyl gluceth-20,dimethicone, biosaccharide gum-1, phenoxyethanol, dimethicone/vinyldimethicone crosspolymer, triethanolamine, acrylates/C10-30 alkylacrylate crosspolymer, panthenol, C12-13 pareth-23, C12-13 pareth-3,disodium EDTA, dipotassium glycyrrhizate, and xanthan gum. Embodiment 25is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 24, wherein thecomposition includes: 5 to 15% by weight of glycerin, 1 to 10% by weightof butylene glycol, 1 to 10% by weight of divinyldimethicone/dimethiconecopolymer, 1 to 10% by weight of methyl gluceth-20, 0.1 to 5% by weightof dimethicone, 0.1 to 5% by weight of biosaccharide gum-1, 0.1 to 2% byweight of phenoxyethanol, 0.1 to 5% by weight of dimethicone/vinyldimethicone crosspolymer, 0.1 to 1% by weight of triethanolamine, 0.1 to1% by weight of acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, 0.1 to 1%by weight of panthenol, 0.05 to 0.5% by weight of C12-13 pareth-23, 0.05to 0.5% by weight of C12-13 pareth-3, 0.01 to 0.5% by weight of disodiumEDTA, 0.01 to 0.5% by weight of dipotassium glycyrrhizate, and 0.01 to0.5% by weight of xanthan gum. Embodiment 26 is the topical skincomposition of Embodiment 18, wherein the composition further includes:glycerin, titanium dioxide, butylene glycol, biosaccharide gum-1,polyacrylamide, hydrolyzed jojoba esters, propylene glycol, C13-14isoparaffin, diazolidinyl urea, sodium polyacrylate, benzyl alcohol,laureth-7, jojoba esters, and methylparaben. Embodiment 27 is thetopical skin composition of Embodiment 26, wherein the compositioncomprises: 5 to 25% by weight of glycerin, 3 to 15% by weight oftitanium dioxide, 1 to 10% by weight of butylene glycol, 0.1 to 3% byweight of biosaccharide gum-1, 0.1 to 3% by weight of polyacrylamide,0.1 to 3% by weight of hydrolyzed jojoba esters, 0.1 to 3% by weight ofpropylene glycol, 0.1 to 3% by weight of C13-14 isoparaffin, 0.1 to 1%by weight of diazolidinyl urea, 0.1 to 1% by weight of sodiumpolyacrylate, 0.05 to 0.5% by weight of benzyl alcohol, 0.05 to 0.5% byweight of laureth-7, 0.05 to 0.5% by weight of jojoba esters, and 0.05to 0.5% by weight of methylparaben. Embodiment 28 is a topical skincomposition comprising an effective amount of Leontopodium alpinumextract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, and niacinamide, wherein thecomposition is capable of whitening or lightening skin. Embodiment 29 isthe topical skin composition of Embodiment 28, comprising 0.001 to 0.1%by weight of Leontopodium alpinum extract, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight ofHalidrys siliquosa extract, and 1 to 5% by weight of niacinamide.Embodiment 30 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 28, whereinthe composition further includes water. Embodiment 31 is the topicalskin composition of Embodiment 30, comprising 70 to 80% by weight ofwater. Embodiment 32 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 28,wherein the composition further includes Opuntia tuna fruit extract.Embodiment 33 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 32, whereinthe composition comprises 0.0001 to 0.015% by weight of Opuntia tunafruit extract. Embodiment 34 is the topical skin composition ofEmbodiment 28, wherein the composition further includes: butyleneglycol, biosaccharide gum-1, glycerin, PPG-5-ceteth-20, phenoxyethanol,bis-PEG/PPG-20/20 dimethicone, hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin, benzylalcohol, disodium EDTA, dipotassium glycyrrhizate, ethylhexylglycerin,and triethanolamine. Embodiment 35 is the topical skin composition ofEmbodiment 34, wherein the composition further includes: 6 to 25% byweight of butylene glycol, 1 to 7% by weight of biosaccharide gum-1, 0.1to 5% by weight of glycerin, 0.1 to 4% by weight of PPG-5-ceteth-20, 0.1to 3% by weight of phenoxyethanol, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight ofbis-PEG/PPG-20/20 dimethicone, 0.01 to 1.5% by weight of hydroxypropylcyclodextrin, 0.01 to 1.5% by weight of benzyl alcohol, 0.01 to 1.5% byweight of disodium EDTA, 0.01 to 1.5% by weight of dipotassiumglycyrrhizate, 0.01 to 1.5% by weight of ethylhexylglycerin, and 0.005to 1% by weight of triethanolamine. Embodiment 36 is a topical skincomposition comprising an effective amount of Leontopodium alpinumextract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, and vegetable amino acids, whereinthe composition is capable of whitening or lightening skin. Embodiment37 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 36, comprising 0.0005to 0.01% by weight of Leontopodium alpinum extract, 0.01 to 0.1% byweight of Halidrys siliquosa extract, and 0.005 to 0.1% by weight ofvegetable amino acids. Embodiment 38 is the topical skin composition ofEmbodiment 36, wherein the composition further includes water.Embodiment 39 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment 38,comprising 5 to 40% by weight of water. Embodiment 40 is the topicalskin composition of Embodiment 36, wherein the composition furtherincludes Opuntia tuna fruit extract. Embodiment 41 is the topical skincomposition of Embodiment 40, wherein the composition comprises 0.0001to 0.015% by weight of Opuntia tuna fruit extract. Embodiment 42 is thetopical skin composition of Embodiment 36, wherein the compositionfurther includes: glycerin, potassium stearate, dipropylene glycol,sorbitol, potassium myristate, myristic acid, glyceryl stearate SE,PEG-60 glyceryl isostearate, stearic acid, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate,PEG-32, potassium laurate, glycol stearate, benzyl alcohol, PEG-6,polyquaternium-7, lauric acid, sodium chloride, PEG-4 laurate, andethylene brassylate. Embodiment 43 is the topical skin composition ofEmbodiment 42, wherein the composition includes: 10 to 40% by weight ofglycerin, 10 to 40% by weight of potassium stearate, 3 to 15% by weightof dipropylene glycol, 1 to 10% by weight of sorbitol, 1 to 10% byweight of potassium myristate, 1 to 10% by weight of myristic acid, 1 to5% by weight of glyceryl stearate SE, 1 to 5% by weight of PEG-60glyceryl isostearate, 1 to 5% by weight of stearic acid, 0.5 to 3% byweight of sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, 0.5 to 3% by weight of PEG-32,0.5 to 3% by weight of potassium laurate, 0.5 to 3% by weight of glycolstearate, 0.1 to 3% by weight of benzyl alcohol, 0.1 to 3% by weight ofPEG-6, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight of polyquaternium-7, 0.1 to 1.5% by weightof lauric acid, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight of sodium chloride, 0.1 to 1% byweight of PEG-4 laurate, and 0.05 to 1% by weight of ethylenebrassylate. Embodiment 44 is the topical skin composition of Embodiment42, wherein the composition is formulated as a cleanser. Embodiment 45is a method of inhibiting melanogenesis, melanosome transfer, and/orglycation comprising topically applying the composition of any one ofEmbodiments 1 to 44 to skin in need thereof, wherein said compositioninhibits melanogenesis, melanosome transfer, or glycation. Embodiment 46is the method of Embodiment 45, wherein the composition is applied todark spots on skin, uneven skin, or hyperpigmented skin.

The compositions of the present invention can also include any one of,any combination of, or all of the following additional ingredients:water, a chelating agent, a moisturizing agent, a preservative, athickening agent, a silicone containing compound, an essential oil, astructuring agent, a vitamin, a pharmaceutical ingredient, or anantioxidant, or any combination of such ingredients or mixtures of suchingredients. In certain aspects, the composition can include at leasttwo, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or all of theseadditional ingredients identified in the previous sentence. Non-limitingexamples of these additional ingredients are identified throughout thisspecification and are incorporated into this section by reference. Theamounts of such ingredients can range from 0.0001% to 99.9% by weight orvolume of the composition, or any integer or range in between asdisclosed in other sections of this specification, which areincorporated into this paragraph by reference.

Also disclosed are methods of inhibiting melanogenesis, melanosometransfer, and/or glycation comprising topically applying any saidcomposition to skin in need thereof, wherein said composition inhibitsmelanogenesis, melanosome transfer, or glycation. In some aspects, saidcompositions are applied to dark spots on skin, uneven skin, orhyperpigmented skin.

Kits that include the compositions of the present invention are alsocontemplated. In certain embodiments, the composition is comprised in acontainer. The container can be a bottle, dispenser, or package. Thecontainer can dispense a pre-determined amount of the composition. Incertain aspects, the compositions is dispensed in a spray, dollop, orliquid. The container can include indicia on its surface. The indiciacan be a word, an abbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

It is also contemplated that the compositions disclosed throughout thisspecification can be used as a leave-on or rinse-off composition. By wayof example, a leave-on composition can be one that is topically appliedto skin and remains on the skin for a period of time (e.g., at least 5,6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, or 30 minutes, or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 or 24 hours,or overnight or throughout the day). Alternatively, a rinse-offcomposition can be a product that is intended to be applied to the skinand then removed or rinsed from the skin (e.g., with water) within aperiod of time such as less than 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 minute. An example ofa rinse of composition can be a skin cleanser, shampoo, conditioner, orsoap. An example of a leave-on composition can be a skin moisturizer,sunscreen, mask, overnight cream, or a day cream.

It is contemplated that any embodiment discussed in this specificationcan be implemented with respect to any method or composition of theinvention, and vice versa. Furthermore, compositions of the inventioncan be used to achieve methods of the invention.

In one embodiment, compositions of the present invention can bepharmaceutically or cosmetically elegant or can have pleasant tactileproperties. “Pharmaceutically elegant,” “cosmetically elegant,” and/or“pleasant tactile properties” describes a composition that hasparticular tactile properties which feel pleasant on the skin (e.g.,compositions that are not too watery or greasy, compositions that have asilky texture, compositions that are non-tacky or sticky, etc.).Pharmaceutically or cosmetically elegant can also relate to thecreaminess or lubricity properties of the composition or to the moistureretaining properties of the composition.

“Topical application” means to apply or spread a composition onto thesurface of lips or keratinous tissue. “Topical skin composition”includes compositions suitable for topical application on lips orkeratinous tissue. Such compositions are typicallydermatologically-acceptable in that they do not have undue toxicity,incompatibility, instability, allergic response, and the like, whenapplied to lips or skin. Topical skin care compositions of the presentinvention can have a selected viscosity to avoid significant dripping orpooling after application to skin.

“Keratinous tissue” includes keratin-containing layers disposed as theoutermost protective covering of mammals and includes, but is notlimited to, lips, skin, hair and nails.

The term “about” or “approximately” are defined as being close to asunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limitingembodiment the terms are defined to be within 10%, preferably within 5%,more preferably within 1%, and most preferably within 0.5%.

The term “substantially” and its variations are defined as being largelybut not necessarily wholly what is specified as understood by one ofordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodimentsubstantially refers to ranges within 10%, within 5%, within 1%, orwithin 0.5%.

The terms “inhibiting” or “reducing” or any variation of these termsincludes any measurable decrease or complete inhibition to achieve adesired result. The terms “promote” or “increase” or any variation ofthese terms includes any measurable increase or production of a proteinor molecule (e.g., matrix proteins such as fibronectin, laminin,collagen, or elastin or molecules such as hyaluronic acid) to achieve adesired result.

The term “effective,” as that term is used in the specification and/orclaims, means adequate to accomplish a desired, expected, or intendedresult.

The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term“comprising” in the claims and/or the specification may mean “one,” butit is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,”and “one or more than one.”

As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising” (andany form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having”(and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and anyform of including, such as “includes” and “include”) or “containing”(and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) areinclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecitedelements or method steps.

The compositions and methods for their use can “comprise,” “consistessentially of,” or “consist of” any of the ingredients or stepsdisclosed throughout the specification. With respect to the transitionalphase “consisting essentially of,” in one non-limiting aspect, a basicand novel characteristic of the compositions and methods disclosed inthis specification includes the compositions' abilities to reduce orprevent symptoms associated with sensitive skin (e.g., erythema) fromappearing on a user's skin.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following detailed description. It should beunderstood, however, that the detailed description and the examples,while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by wayof illustration only. Additionally, it is contemplated that changes andmodifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 Results of the visual grading of the treated and untreated groupsfor uneven skin tone at baseline and 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

FIG. 2 Results of the visual grading of the treated and untreated groupsfor discrete pigment at baseline and 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

FIG. 3 Results of the visual grading of the treated and untreated groupsfor mottled pigment at baseline and 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

FIG. 4 Mean percentage of panelists with visual grading showingimprovement over 12 weeks for the treated group.

FIG. 5 Results of the Clarity™ Pro pigmentation results of the treatedand untreated groups for brightness intensity at 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

FIG. 6 Results of the Clarity™ Pro pigmentation results of the treatedand untreated groups for pigmentation variation at 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

FIG. 7 Results of the Clarity™ Pro pigmentation results of the treatedand untreated groups for pigment contrast at 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

FIG. 8 Mean percentage of panelists with Clarity™ Pro pigmentationresults showing improvement over 12 weeks for the treated group.

FIG. 9 Mean percentage of panelists with Clarity™ Pro pigmentationresults showing improvement over 12 weeks for the untreated group.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Melanocytes are found in the basal layer of the epidermis. When exposedto damaging environmental factors such the ultra violet (UV) radiationof the sun, irritants, and pollution, the keratinocyte (outermost cellof the skin) releases signaling molecules, such asα-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), and inflammatory cytokines.These hormones trigger melanocytes to produce pigment known as melanin(Garcia-Borron et al., 2005). Tyrosine is a precursor molecule tomelanin synthesis. It requires the enzyme tyrosinase (TYR) to changetyrosine into melanin. This reaction occurs in the melanosome, as itbecomes fully matured it is filled with melanin. (Goldsmith, 1991).During this maturation process, glutathione (GSH) influences the type ofmelanin produced. GSH, while mostly known for its detoxificationfunction, also shifts the production of eumelanin (dark) to pheomelanin(light). Melanocytes have dendrite structures that transfer melanosomesto the keratinocyte. (Seiberg, 2001). Damage from prolong exposure to UVrays, free radicals and irritants lead to excessive production ofmelanin by the melanocyte. This unregulated production of melanin leadsto dark spot formation, and uneven skin tone (Bastiaens et al, 2004).

The compositions and methods of the present invention can be used, forexample, for improving the skin's visual appearance, whitening orlightening the skin's color or tone, treating hyperpigmentation andother related disorders, and evening out a person's skin tone. Incertain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention caninclude a combination of ingredients that can be used to lighten orwhiten skin. These and other non-limiting aspects of the presentinvention are discussed in further detail in the following sections.

These and other non-limiting aspects of the present invention areprovided in the following subsections.

A. Combination of Ingredients

The present invention is premised on a discovery of a combination ofingredients—Leontopodium alpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract,vegetable amino acids, niacinamide, hexylresorcinol, Pinus pinasterextract, Betula alba extract, Albizia julibrissin bark extract,hydrolyzed Candida saitoana extract, Lentinus edodes mycelium extract,and/or Opuntia tuna fruit extract—that can be used to improve the skin'svisual appearance, whiten or lighten the skin's color or tone, treathyperpigmentation and other related disorders, and even out a person'sskin tone. These ingredients are discussed in more detail below.

Leontopodium alpinum Extract: Also known as edelweiss, Leontopodiumalpinum is native to remote mountain areas such as the Alps. Thisingredient is commercially available from a variety of sources (see,e.g., CTFA, Volume 2, page 1449, which is incorporated by reference). Anexemplary source can be obtained from Carrubba Inc. (Milford, Conn. USA)under the trade name Edelweiss Extract M5768. It has been discoveredthat this ingredient can be used to reduce the production of melanin inskin cells (See Example 1).

Halidrys siliquosa Extract: Native to the British Isles and Europe, theextract is a skin conditioner. This ingredient is commercially availablefrom a variety of sources. An exemplary source can be obtained fromBiosil (FRANCE) under the trade name Lightoceane®. It has beendiscovered that this algae extract targets melanin production and helpsinhibit the appearance of melanin on the skin's surface by reducing thetransfer of melanin to the skin (See Example 1).

Vegetable Amino Acids (Navy Bean): The navy bean is produced from thecommon bean plant (Phaseolus vulgaris). The navy bean is a small whitebean that is produced worldwide from North America to Europe to Africato Asia, and it is different from green beans, anasazi beans, blackbeans, cranberry or borlotti beans, chickpeas, lentil beans, pink beans,pinto beans, red kidney beans, shell beans, and yellow beans. Vegetableamino acids (navy bean) have been discovered to significantly improvethe brightness of the skin. They have also been shown to improve theoverall evenness of skin tone and reduce the visible contrast of darkspots on the skin as it targets melanin production (See Examples 1 and2). Navy bean extract is commercially available from a wide range ofsources. For instance, Carrubba Inc. (Milford, Conn. USA) produces anaqueous liquid navy bean extract that can be used in the context of thepresent invention. Also, InfraReady Products (1998) Ltd. (CANADA)produces a powdered navy been extract that can also be used in thecontext of the present invention.

Niacinamide: Also known nicotinamide, 3-Pyridinecarboxamide, or VitaminB₃, it is an organic compound known to exhibit skin conditioningbenefits when used in cosmetic compositions. Niacinamide has thefollowing chemical formula:

This ingredient is commercially available from a variety of sources(see, e.g., CTFA, Volume 2, pages 1651-1652, which is incorporated byreference). It has been discovered that this ingredient can be used toprovide added skin brightening benefits and to inhibit melanin transferto the skin (See Example 1).

Hexylresorcinol: Glutathione (GSH), comprised of three amino acids, isvital to the skin's detoxification process. As we age, our body'snatural production of GSH decreases. Stress and environmental pollutantsalso depletes its levels. GSH can also influence the melanocyte toproduce lighter melanin. Hexylresorcinol is shown to boost glutathionein skin. It is also shown to target melanin production and help preventprotein glycation. Accumulation of glycated proteins in skin can lead todiscoloration, in addition to damaging the skin. (See Example 1). Thisingredient is commercially available from a variety of sources (see,e.g., CTFA, Volume 1, page 1158, which is incorporated by reference). Anexemplary source can be obtained from Syntheon Limited (USA) under thetrade name Synovea® HR.

Pinus pinaster Bark/Bud Extract: Native to the Mediterranean, theMaritime Pine is a known source of antioxidants such as flavonoids,catechins, proanthocyanidins, and phenolic acids. This ingredient iscommercially available from a variety of sources (see, e.g., CTFA,Volume 2, page 2034, which is incorporated by reference). An exemplarysource can be obtained from Carrubba Inc. (Milford, Conn. USA). It hasbeen discovered that this ingredient can be used to reduce theproduction of melanin in skin cells (See Example 1).

Betula alba Leaf Extract: Native to Northern Europe, and Iceland, theextract of the White Birch is known for its purifying and detoxifyingeffects, encourages the excretion of fluids and promotes metabolicactivities. This ingredient is commercially available from a variety ofsources (see, e.g., CTFA, Volume 1, page 280, which is incorporated byreference). An exemplary source can be obtained from Carrubba Inc.(Milford, Conn. USA). It has been discovered that this ingredient can beused to reduce the production of melanin in skin cells (See Example 1).

Albizia julibrissin Bark Extract: Also known as the Persian or pink silktree, Albizia julibrissin is native to southwestern and eastern Asia.This ingredient is commercially available from a variety of sources(see, e.g., CTFA, Volume 1, page 84, which is incorporated byreference). An exemplary source can be obtained from Sederma (FRANCE)under the trade name Prodizia™.

Hydrolyzed Candida saitoana Extract: An isolated and purified form ofCandida saitoana, a fungi obtained from a fermentation process, theextract is designed to target proteasome and autophagic pathways, theskin's natural detoxification mechanisms. This ingredient iscommercially available from a variety of sources. An exemplary sourcecan be obtained from Silab (FRANCE) under the trade name Celldetox®.

Lentinus edodes Mycelium Extract: Also known as Lentinus enodes andshiitake, Lentinus edodes mycelium is a wood-decaying basidiomycetesgrowing on fallen wood of a wide variety of deciduous trees throughouteast Asia and as far south as Australia. It is capable of providingantioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefit for skin. It is also a sourceof kojic acid, which is beneficial to even and lighten skin tone. Thisingredient is commercially available from a variety of sources. Anexemplary source can be obtained from Actives International (USA) underthe trade name ViaFerm White.

Opuntia tuna Fruit Extract: Also commonly known as prickly pear, Opuntiatuna is the fruit of a family of cactus native to the Americas. Theextract is commercially available from a wide range of sources (seeInternational Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook, 12th edition,volume 2, page 1731 (2008), which is incorporated by reference).

B. Amounts of Ingredients

It is contemplated that the compositions of the present invention caninclude any amount of the ingredients discussed in this specification.The compositions can also include any number of combinations ofadditional ingredients described throughout this specification (e.g.,pigments, or additional cosmetic or pharmaceutical ingredients). Theconcentrations of the any ingredient within the compositions can vary.In non-limiting embodiments, for example, the compositions can comprise,consisting essentially of, or consist of, in their final form, forexample, at least about 0.0001%, 0.0002%, 0.0003%, 0.0004%, 0.0005%,0.0006%, 0.0007%, 0.0008%, 0.0009%, 0.0010%, 0.0011%, 0.0012%, 0.0013%,0.0014%, 0.0015%, 0.0016%, 0.0017%, 0.0018%, 0.0019%, 0.0020%, 0.0021%,0.0022%, 0.0023%, 0.0024%, 0.0025%, 0.0026%, 0.0027%, 0.0028%, 0.0029%,0.0030%, 0.0031%, 0.0032%, 0.0033%, 0.0034%, 0.0035%, 0.0036%, 0.0037%,0.0038%, 0.0039%, 0.0040%, 0.0041%, 0.0042%, 0.0043%, 0.0044%, 0.0045%,0.0046%, 0.0047%, 0.0048%, 0.0049%, 0.0050%, 0.0051%, 0.0052%, 0.0053%,0.0054%, 0.0055%, 0.0056%, 0.0057%, 0.0058%, 0.0059%, 0.0060%, 0.0061%,0.0062%, 0.0063%, 0.0064%, 0.0065%, 0.0066%, 0.0067%, 0.0068%, 0.0069%,0.0070%, 0.0071%, 0.0072%, 0.0073%, 0.0074%, 0.0075%, 0.0076%, 0.0077%,0.0078%, 0.0079%, 0.0080%, 0.0081%, 0.0082%, 0.0083%, 0.0084%, 0.0085%,0.0086%, 0.0087%, 0.0088%, 0.0089%, 0.0090%, 0.0091%, 0.0092%, 0.0093%,0.0094%, 0.0095%, 0.0096%, 0.0097%, 0.0098%, 0.0099%, 0.0100%, 0.0200%,0.0250%, 0.0275%, 0.0300%, 0.0325%, 0.0350%, 0.0375%, 0.0400%, 0.0425%,0.0450%, 0.0475%, 0.0500%, 0.0525%, 0.0550%, 0.0575%, 0.0600%, 0.0625%,0.0650%, 0.0675%, 0.0700%, 0.0725%, 0.0750%, 0.0775%, 0.0800%, 0.0825%,0.0850%, 0.0875%, 0.0900%, 0.0925%, 0.0950%, 0.0975%, 0.1000%, 0.1250%,0.1500%, 0.1750%, 0.2000%, 0.2250%, 0.2500%, 0.2750%, 0.3000%, 0.3250%,0.3500%, 0.3750%, 0.4000%, 0.4250%, 0.4500%, 0.4750%, 0.5000%, 0.5250%,0.0550%, 0.5750%, 0.6000%, 0.6250%, 0.6500%, 0.6750%, 0.7000%, 0.7250%,0.7500%, 0.7750%, 0.8000%, 0.8250%, 0.8500%, 0.8750%, 0.9000%, 0.9250%,0.9500%, 0.9750%, 1.0%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%,1.9%, 2.0%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3.0%,3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4.0%, 4.1%, 4.2%,4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5.0%, 5.1%, 5.2%, 5.3%, 5.4%,5.5%, 5.6%, 5.7%, 5.8%, 5.9%, 6.0%, 6.1%, 6.2%, 6.3%, 6.4%, 6.5%, 6.6%,6.7%, 6.8%, 6.9%, 7.0%, 7.1%, 7.2%, 7.3%, 7.4%, 7.5%, 7.6%, 7.7%, 7.8%,7.9%, 8.0%, 8.1%, 8.2%, 8.3%, 8.4%, 8.5%, 8.6%, 8.7%, 8.8%, 8.9%, 9.0%,9.1%, 9.2%, 9.3%, 9.4%, 9.5%, 9.6%, 9.7%, 9.8%, 9.9%, 10%, 11%, 12%,13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%,27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%,90%, 95%, or 99% or any range derivable therein, of at least one of theingredients that are mentioned throughout the specification and claims.In non-limiting aspects, the percentage can be calculated by weight orvolume of the total composition. A person of ordinary skill in the artwould understand that the concentrations can vary depending on theaddition, substitution, and/or subtraction of ingredients in a givencomposition.

C. Vehicles

The compositions of the present invention can be incorporated into alltypes of vehicles. Non-limiting examples include emulsions (e.g.,water-in-oil, water-in-oil-in-water, oil-in-water, silicone-in-water,water-in-silicone, oil-in-water-in-oil, oil-in-water-in-siliconeemulsions), creams, lotions, solutions (both aqueous andhydro-alcoholic), anhydrous bases (such as lipsticks and powders), gels,and ointments. Variations and other appropriate vehicles will beapparent to the skilled artisan and are appropriate for use in thepresent invention. In certain aspects, it is important that theconcentrations and combinations of the compounds, ingredients, andagents be selected in such a way that the combinations are chemicallycompatible and do not form complexes which precipitate from the finishedproduct.

D. Additional Ingredients

In addition to the combination of ingredients disclosed by theinventors, the compositions can also include additional ingredients suchas cosmetic ingredients and pharmaceutical active ingredients.Non-limiting examples of these additional ingredients are described inthe following subsections.

1. Cosmetic Ingredients

The CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook (2004and 2008) describes a wide variety of non-limiting cosmetic ingredientsthat can be used in the context of the present invention. Examples ofthese ingredient classes include: fragrances (artificial and natural),dyes and color ingredients (e.g., Blue 1, Blue 1 Lake, Red 40, titaniumdioxide, D&C blue no. 4, D&C green no. 5, D&C orange no. 4, D&C red no.17, D&C red no. 33, D&C violet no. 2, D&C yellow no. 10, and D&C yellowno. 11), adsorbents, lubricants, solvents, moisturizers (including,e.g., emollients, humectants, film formers, occlusive agents, and agentsthat affect the natural moisturization mechanisms of the skin),water-repellants, UV absorbers (physical and chemical absorbers such aspara-aminobenzoic acid (“PABA”) and corresponding PABA derivatives,titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, etc.), essential oils, vitamins (e.g. A,B, C, D, E, and K), trace metals (e.g. zinc, calcium and selenium),anti-irritants (e.g. steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories),botanical extracts (e.g. aloe vera, chamomile, cucumber extract, ginkgobiloba, ginseng, and rosemary), anti-microbial agents, antioxidants(e.g., BHT and tocopherol), chelating agents (e.g., disodium EDTA andtetrasodium EDTA), preservatives (e.g., methylparaben andpropylparaben), pH adjusters (e.g., sodium hydroxide and citric acid),absorbents (e.g., aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, kaolin, corn starch,oat starch, cyclodextrin, talc, and zeolite), skin bleaching andlightening agents (e.g., hydroquinone and niacinamide lactate),humectants (e.g., sorbitol, urea, methyl gluceth-20, and mannitol),exfoliants, waterproofing agents (e.g., magnesium/aluminum hydroxidestearate), skin conditioning agents (e.g., aloe extracts, allantoin,bisabolol, ceramides, dimethicone, hyaluronic acid, biosaccharide gum-1,ethylhexylglycerin, pentylene glycol, hydrogenated polydecene,octyldodecyl oleate, and dipotassium glycyrrhizate). Non-limitingexamples of some of these ingredients are provided in the followingsubsections.

a. UV Absorption Agents

UV absorption agents that can be used in combination with thecompositions of the present invention include chemical and physicalsunblocks. Non-limiting examples of chemical sunblocks that can be usedinclude para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), PABA esters (glyceryl PABA,amyldimethyl PABA and octyldimethyl PABA), butyl PABA, ethyl PABA, ethyldihydroxypropyl PABA, benzophenones (oxybenzone, sulisobenzone,benzophenone, and benzophenone-1 through 12), cinnamates (octylmethoxycinnamate, isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate, octylmethoxy cinnamate,cinoxate, diisopropyl methyl cinnamate, DEA-methoxycinnamate, ethyldiisopropylcinnamate, glyceryl octanoate dimethoxycinnamate and ethylmethoxycinnamate), cinnamate esters, salicylates (homomethyl salicylate,benzyl salicylate, glycol salicylate, isopropylbenzyl salicylate, etc.),anthranilates, ethyl urocanate, homosalate, octisalate, dibenzoylmethanederivatives (e.g., avobenzone), octocrylene, octyl triazone, digalloyltrioleate, glyceryl aminobenzoate, lawsone with dihydroxyacetone,ethylhexyl triazone, dioctyl butamido triazone, benzylidene malonatepolysiloxane, terephthalylidene dicamphor sulfonic acid, disodium phenyldibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexylbenzoate, bis diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl benzoate, bisbenzoxazoylphenyl ethylhexylimino triazine, drometrizole trisiloxane,methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol, andbis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyltriazine, 4-methylbenzylidenecamphor, and isopentyl 4-methoxycinnamate. Non-limiting examples ofphysical sunblocks include, kaolin, talc, petrolatum and metal oxides(e.g., titanium dioxide and zinc oxide).

b. Moisturizing Agents

Non-limiting examples of moisturizing agents that can be used with thecompositions of the present invention include amino acids, chondroitinsulfate, diglycerin, erythritol, fructose, glucose, glycerin, glycerolpolymers, glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, honey, hyaluronic acid,hydrogenated honey, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, inositol, lactitol,maltitol, maltose, mannitol, natural moisturizing factor, PEG-15butanediol, polyglyceryl sorbitol, salts of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid,potassium PCA, propylene glycol, sodium glucuronate, sodium PCA,sorbitol, sucrose, trehalose, urea, and xylitol.

Other examples include acetylated lanolin, acetylated lanolin alcohol,alanine, algae extract, aloe barbadensis, aloe-barbadensis extract, aloebarbadensis gel, althea officinalis extract, apricot (prunus armeniaca)kernel oil, arginine, arginine aspartate, arnica montana extract,aspartic acid, avocado (persea gratissima) oil, barrier sphingolipids,butyl alcohol, beeswax, behenyl alcohol, beta-sitosterol, birch (betulaalba) bark extract, borage (borago officinalis) extract, butcherbroom(ruscus aculeatus) extract, butylene glycol, calendula officinalisextract, calendula officinalis oil, candelilla (euphorbia cerifera) wax,canola oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cardamom (elettariacardamomum) oil, carnauba (copernicia cerifera) wax, carrot (daucuscarota sativa) oil, castor (ricinus communis) oil, ceramides, ceresin,ceteareth-5, ceteareth-12, ceteareth-20, cetearyl octanoate, ceteth-20,ceteth-24, cetyl acetate, cetyl octanoate, cetyl palmitate, chamomile(anthemis nobilis) oil, cholesterol, cholesterol esters, cholesterylhydroxystearate, citric acid, clary (salvia sclarea) oil, cocoa(theobroma cacao) butter, coco-caprylate/caprate, coconut (cocosnucifera) oil, collagen, collagen amino acids, corn (zea mays)oil, fattyacids, decyl oleate, dimethicone copolyol, dimethiconol, dioctyladipate, dioctyl succinate, dipentaerythrityl hexacaprylate/hexacaprate,DNA, erythritol, ethoxydiglycol, ethyl linoleate, eucalyptus globulusoil, evening primrose (oenothera biennis) oil, fatty acids, geraniummaculatum oil, glucosamine, glucose glutamate, glutamic acid,glycereth-26, glycerin, glycerol, glyceryl distearate, glycerylhydroxystearate, glyceryl laurate, glyceryl linoleate, glycerylmyristate, glyceryl oleate, glyceryl stearate, glyceryl stearate SE,glycine, glycol stearate, glycol stearate SE, glycosaminoglycans, grape(vitis vinifera) seed oil, hazel (corylus americana) nut oil, hazel(corylus avellana) nut oil, hexylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, hybridsafflower (carthamus tinctorius) oil, hydrogenated castor oil,hydrogenated coco-glycerides, hydrogenated coconut oil, hydrogenatedlanolin, hydrogenated lecithin, hydrogenated palm glyceride,hydrogenated palm kernel oil, hydrogenated soybean oil, hydrogenatedtallow glyceride, hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydrolyzed collagen,hydrolyzed elastin, hydrolyzed glycosaminoglycans, hydrolyzed keratin,hydrolyzed soy protein, hydroxylated lanolin, hydroxyproline, isocetylstearate, isocetyl stearoyl stearate, isodecyl oleate, isopropylisostearate, isopropyl lanolate, isopropyl myristate, isopropylpalmitate, isopropyl stearate, isostearamide DEA, isostearic acid,isostearyl lactate, isostearyl neopentanoate, jasmine (jasminumofficinale) oil, jojoba (buxus chinensis) oil, kelp, kukui (aleuritesmoluccana) nut oil, lactamide MEA, laneth-16, laneth-10 acetate,lanolin, lanolin acid, lanolin alcohol, lanolin oil, lanolin wax,lavender (lavandula angustifolia) oil, lecithin, lemon (citrus medicalimonum) oil, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, macadamia ternifolia nutoil, maltitol, matricaria (chamomilla recutita) oil, methyl glucosesesquistearate, methylsilanol PCA, mineral oil, mink oil, mortierellaoil, myristyl lactate, myristyl myristate, myristyl propionate,neopentyl glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, octyldodecanol, octyldodecylmyristate, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate, octyl hydroxystearate, octylpalmitate, octyl salicylate, octyl stearate, oleic acid, olive (oleaeuropaea) oil, orange (citrus aurantium dulcis) oil, palm (elaeisguineensis) oil, palmitic acid, pantethine, panthenol, panthenyl ethylether, paraffin, PCA, peach (prunus persica) kernel oil, peanut (arachishypogaea) oil, PEG-8 C12-18 ester, PEG-15 cocamine, PEG-150 distearate,PEG-60 glyceryl isostearate, PEG-5 glyceryl stearate, PEG-30 glycerylstearate, PEG-7 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-20 methyl glucose sesquistearate,PEG-40 sorbitan peroleate, PEG-5 soy sterol, PEG-10 soy sterol, PEG-2stearate, PEG-8 stearate, PEG-20 stearate, PEG-32 stearate, PEG-40stearate, PEG-50 stearate, PEG-100 stearate, PEG-150 stearate,pentadecalactone, peppermint (mentha piperita) oil, petrolatum,phospholipids, polyamino sugar condensate, polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate,polyquaternium-24, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60,polysorbate 80, polysorbate 85, potassium myristate, potassiumpalmitate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate,propylene glycol dioctanoate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propyleneglycol laurate, propylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol stearate SE,PVP, pyridoxine dipalmitate, retinol, retinyl palmitate, rice (oryzasativa) bran oil, RNA, rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis) oil, rose oil,safflower (carthamus tinctorius) oil, sage (salvia officinalis) oil,sandalwood (santalum album) oil, serine, serum protein, sesame (sesamumindicum) oil, shea butter (butyrospermum parkii), silk powder, sodiumchondroitin sulfate, sodium hyaluronate, sodium lactate, sodiumpalmitate, sodium PCA, sodium polyglutamate, soluble collagen, sorbitanlaurate, sorbitan oleate, sorbitan palmitate, sorbitan sesquioleate,sorbitan stearate, sorbitol, soybean (glycine soja) oil, sphingolipids,squalane, squalene, stearamide MEA-stearate, stearic acid, stearoxydimethicone, stearoxytrimethylsilane, stearyl alcohol, stearylglycyrrhetinate, stearyl heptanoate, stearyl stearate, sunflower(helianthus annuus) seed oil, sweet almond (prunus amygdalus dulcis)oil, synthetic beeswax, tocopherol, tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryllinoleate, tribehenin, tridecyl neopentanoate, tridecyl stearate,triethanolamine, tristearin, urea, vegetable oil, water, waxes, wheat(triticum vulgare) germ oil, and ylang ylang (cananga odorata) oil.

c. Antioxidants

Non-limiting examples of antioxidants that can be used with thecompositions of the present invention include acetyl cysteine, ascorbicacid polypeptide, ascorbyl dipalmitate, ascorbyl methylsilanolpectinate, ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate, BHA, BHT, t-butylhydroquinone, cysteine, cysteine HCl, diamylhydroquinone,di-t-butylhydroquinone, dicetyl thiodipropionate, dioleyl tocopherylmethylsilanol, disodium ascorbyl sulfate, distearyl thiodipropionate,ditridecyl thiodipropionate, dodecyl gallate, erythorbic acid, esters ofascorbic acid, ethyl ferulate, ferulic acid, gallic acid esters,hydroquinone, isooctyl thioglycolate, kojic acid, magnesium ascorbate,magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, methylsilanol ascorbate, natural botanicalanti-oxidants such as green tea or grape seed extracts,nordihydroguaiaretic acid, octyl gallate, phenylthioglycolic acid,potassium ascorbyl tocopheryl phosphate, potassium sulfite, propylgallate, quinones, rosmarinic acid, sodium ascorbate, sodium bisulfite,sodium erythorbate, sodium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite, superoxidedismutase, sodium thioglycolate, sorbityl furfural, thiodiglycol,thiodiglycolamide, thiodiglycolic acid, thioglycolic acid, thiolacticacid, thiosalicylic acid, tocophereth-5, tocophereth-10, tocophereth-12,tocophereth-18, tocophereth-50, tocopherol, tocophersolan, tocopherylacetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tocopheryl nicotinate, tocopherylsuccinate, and tris(nonylphenyl)phosphite.

d. Structuring Agents

In other non-limiting aspects, the compositions of the present inventioncan include a structuring agent. Structuring agent, in certain aspects,assist in providing rheological characteristics to the composition tocontribute to the composition's stability. In other aspects, structuringagents can also function as an emulsifier or surfactant. Non-limitingexamples of structuring agents include stearic acid, palmitic acid,stearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, stearic acid, palmiticacid, the polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol having an averageof about 1 to about 21 ethylene oxide units, the polyethylene glycolether of cetyl alcohol having an average of about 1 to about 5 ethyleneoxide units, and mixtures thereof.

e. Emulsifiers

In certain aspects of the present invention, the compositions do notinclude an emulsifier. In other aspects, however, the compositions caninclude one or more emulsifiers. Emulsifiers can reduce the interfacialtension between phases and improve the formulation and stability of anemulsion. The emulsifiers can be nonionic, cationic, anionic, andzwitterionic emulsifiers (See McCutcheon's (1986); U.S. Pat. Nos.5,011,681; 4,421,769; 3,755,560). Non-limiting examples include estersof glycerin, esters of propylene glycol, fatty acid esters ofpolyethylene glycol, fatty acid esters of polypropylene glycol, estersof sorbitol, esters of sorbitan anhydrides, carboxylic acid copolymers,esters and ethers of glucose, ethoxylated ethers, ethoxylated alcohols,alkyl phosphates, polyoxyethylene fatty ether phosphates, fatty acidamides, acyl lactylates, soaps, TEA stearate, DEA oleth-3 phosphate,polyethylene glycol 20 sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20),polyethylene glycol 5 soya sterol, steareth-2, steareth-20, steareth-21,ceteareth-20, cetearyl glucoside, cetearyl alcohol, C12-13 pareth-3,PPG-2 methyl glucose ether distearate, PPG-5-ceteth-20,bis-PEG/PPG-20/20 dimethicone, ceteth-10, polysorbate 80, cetylphosphate, potassium cetyl phosphate, diethanolamine cetyl phosphate,polysorbate 60, glyceryl stearate, PEG-100 stearate, arachidyl alcohol,arachidyl glucoside, and mixtures thereof.

f. Silicone Containing Compounds

In non-limiting aspects, silicone containing compounds include anymember of a family of polymeric products whose molecular backbone ismade up of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms with side groupsattached to the silicon atoms. By varying the —Si—O— chain lengths, sidegroups, and crosslinking, silicones can be synthesized into a widevariety of materials. They can vary in consistency from liquid to gel tosolids.

The silicone containing compounds that can be used in the context of thepresent invention include those described in this specification or thoseknown to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Non-limiting examplesinclude silicone oils (e.g., volatile and non-volatile oils), gels, andsolids. In certain aspects, the silicon containing compounds includes asilicone oils such as a polyorganosiloxane. Non-limiting examples ofpolyorganosiloxanes include dimethicone, cyclomethicone,polysilicone-11, phenyl trimethicone, trimethylsilylamodimethicone,stearoxytrimethylsilane, or mixtures of these and other organosiloxanematerials in any given ratio in order to achieve the desired consistencyand application characteristics depending upon the intended application(e.g., to a particular area such as the skin, hair, or eyes). A“volatile silicone oil” includes a silicone oil have a low heat ofvaporization, i.e. normally less than about 50 cal per gram of siliconeoil. Non-limiting examples of volatile silicone oils include:cyclomethicones such as Dow Corning 344 Fluid, Dow Corning 345 Fluid,Dow Corning 244 Fluid, and Dow Corning 245 Fluid, Volatile Silicon 7207(Union Carbide Corp., Danbury, Conn.); low viscosity dimethicones, i.e.dimethicones having a viscosity of about 50 cst or less (e.g.,dimethicones such as Dow Corning 200-0.5 cst Fluid). The Dow CorningFluids are available from Dow Corning Corporation, Midland, Mich.Cyclomethicone and dimethicone are described in the Third Edition of theCTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (incorporated by reference) ascyclic dimethyl polysiloxane compounds and a mixture of fully methylatedlinear siloxane polymers end-blocked with trimethylsiloxy units,respectively. Other non-limiting volatile silicone oils that can be usedin the context of the present invention include those available fromGeneral Electric Co., Silicone Products Div., Waterford, N.Y. and SWSSilicones Div. of Stauffer Chemical Co., Adrian, Mich.

g. Essential Oils

Essential oils include oils derived from herbs, flowers, trees, andother plants. Such oils are typically present as tiny droplets betweenthe plant's cells, and can be extracted by several method known to thoseof skill in the art (e.g., steam distilled, enfleurage (i.e., extractionby using fat), maceration, solvent extraction, or mechanical pressing).When these types of oils are exposed to air they tend to evaporate(i.e., a volatile oil). As a result, many essential oils are colorless,but with age they can oxidize and become darker. Essential oils areinsoluble in water and are soluble in alcohol, ether, fixed oils(vegetal), and other organic solvents. Typical physical characteristicsfound in essential oils include boiling points that vary from about 160°to 240° C. and densities ranging from about 0.759 to about 1.096.

Essential oils typically are named by the plant from which the oil isfound. For example, rose oil or peppermint oil are derived from rose orpeppermint plants, respectively. Non-limiting examples of essential oilsthat can be used in the context of the present invention include sesameoil, macadamia nut oil, tea tree oil, evening primrose oil, Spanish sageoil, Spanish rosemary oil, coriander oil, thyme oil, pimento berriesoil, rose oil, anise oil, balsam oil, bergamot oil, rosewood oil, cedaroil, chamomile oil, sage oil, clary sage oil, clove oil, cypress oil,eucalyptus oil, fennel oil, sea fennel oil, frankincense oil, geraniumoil, ginger oil, grapefruit oil, jasmine oil, juniper oil, lavender oil,lemon oil, lemongrass oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, marjoram oil, myrrhoil, neroli oil, orange oil, patchouli oil, pepper oil, black pepperoil, petitgrain oil, pine oil, rose otto oil, rosemary oil, sandalwoodoil, spearmint oil, spikenard oil, vetiver oil, wintergreen oil, orylang ylang. Other essential oils known to those of skill in the art arealso contemplated as being useful within the context of the presentinvention.

h. Thickening Agents

Thickening agents, including thickener or gelling agents, includesubstances which that can increase the viscosity of a composition.Thickeners includes those that can increase the viscosity of acomposition without substantially modifying the efficacy of the activeingredient within the composition. Thickeners can also increase thestability of the compositions of the present invention. In certainaspects of the present invention, thickeners include hydrogenatedpolyisobutene, trihydroxystearin, ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vpcopolymer, or a mixture thereof.

Non-limiting examples of additional thickening agents that can be usedin the context of the present invention include carboxylic acidpolymers, crosslinked polyacrylate polymers, polyacrylamide polymers,polysaccharides, and gums. Examples of carboxylic acid polymers includecrosslinked compounds containing one or more monomers derived fromacrylic acid, substituted acrylic acids, and salts and esters of theseacrylic acids and the substituted acrylic acids, wherein thecrosslinking agent contains two or more carbon-carbon double bonds andis derived from a polyhydric alcohol (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,087,445;4,509,949; 2,798,053; CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary,Fourth edition, 1991, pp. 12 and 80). Examples of commercially availablecarboxylic acid polymers include carbomers, which are homopolymers ofacrylic acid crosslinked with allyl ethers of sucrose or pentaerytritol(e.g., Carbopol™ 900 series from B. F. Goodrich).

Non-limiting examples of crosslinked polyacrylate polymers includecationic and nonionic polymers. Examples are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,100,660; 4,849,484; 4,835,206; 4,628,078; 4,599,379).

Non-limiting examples of polyacrylamide polymers (including nonionicpolyacrylamide polymers including substituted branched or unbranchedpolymers) include polyacrylamide, isoparaffin and laureth-7, multi-blockcopolymers of acrylamides and substituted acrylamides with acrylic acidsand substituted acrylic acids.

Non-limiting examples of polysaccharides include cellulose,carboxymethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose acetate propionatecarboxylate, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulosesulfate, and mixtures thereof. Another example is an alkyl substitutedcellulose where the hydroxy groups of the cellulose polymer ishydroxyalkylated (preferably hydroxy ethylated or hydroxypropylated) toform a hydroxyalkylated cellulose which is then further modified with aC₁₀-C₃₀ straight chain or branched chain alkyl group through an etherlinkage. Typically these polymers are ethers of C₁₀-C₃₀ straight orbranched chain alcohols with hydroxyalkylcelluloses. Other usefulpolysaccharides include scleroglucans comprising a linear chain of (1-3)linked glucose units with a (1-6) linked glucose every three unit.

Non-limiting examples of gums that can be used with the presentinvention include acacia, agar, algin, alginic acid, ammonium alginate,amylopectin, calcium alginate, calcium carrageenan, carnitine,carrageenan, dextrin, gelatin, gellan gum, guar gum, guarhydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, hectorite, hyaluronic acid, hydratedsilica, hydroxypropyl chitosan, hydroxypropyl guar, karaya gum, kelp,locust bean gum, natto gum, potassium alginate, potassium carrageenan,propylene glycol alginate, sclerotium gum, sodium carboxymethyl dextran,sodium carrageenan, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, and mixtures thereof.

i. Preservatives

Non-limiting examples of preservatives that can be used in the contextof the present invention include quaternary ammonium preservatives suchas polyquaternium-1 and benzalkonium halides (e.g., benzalkoniumchloride (“BAC”) and benzalkonium bromide), parabens (e.g.,methylparabens and propylparabens), phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol,chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, thimerosal or combinations thereof.

2. Pharmaceutical Ingredients

Pharmaceutical active agents are also contemplated as being useful withthe compositions of the present invention. Non-limiting examples ofpharmaceutical active agents include anti-acne agents, agents used totreat rosacea, analgesics, anesthetics, anorectals, antihistamines,anti-inflammatory agents including non-steroidal anti-inflammatorydrugs, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimicrobials, anti-canceractives, scabicides, pediculicides, antineoplastics, antiperspirants,antipruritics, antipsoriatic agents, antiseborrheic agents, biologicallyactive proteins and peptides, burn treatment agents, cauterizing agents,depigmenting agents, depilatories, diaper rash treatment agents,enzymes, hair growth stimulants, hair growth retardants including DFMOand its salts and analogs, hemostatics, kerotolytics, canker soretreatment agents, cold sore treatment agents, dental and periodontaltreatment agents, photosensitizing actives, skin protectant/barrieragents, steroids including hormones and corticosteroids, sunburntreatment agents, sunscreens, transdermal actives, nasal actives,vaginal actives, wart treatment agents, wound treatment agents, woundhealing agents, etc.

E. Kits

Kits are also contemplated as being used in certain aspects of thepresent invention. For instance, compositions of the present inventioncan be included in a kit. A kit can include a container. Containers caninclude a bottle, a metal tube, a laminate tube, a plastic tube, adispenser, a pressurized container, a barrier container, a package, acompartment, a lipstick container, a compact container, cosmetic pansthat can hold cosmetic compositions, or other types of containers suchas injection or blow-molded plastic containers into which thedispersions or compositions or desired bottles, dispensers, or packagesare retained. The kit and/or container can include indicia on itssurface. The indicia, for example, can be a word, a phrase, anabbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

The containers can dispense a pre-determined amount of the composition.In other embodiments, the container can be squeezed (e.g., metal,laminate, or plastic tube) to dispense a desired amount of thecomposition. The composition can be dispensed as a spray, an aerosol, aliquid, a fluid, or a semi-solid. The containers can have spray, pump,or squeeze mechanisms. A kit can also include instructions for employingthe kit components as well the use of any other compositions included inthe container. Instructions can include an explanation of how to apply,use, and maintain the compositions.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are included to demonstrate certain non-limitingaspects of the invention. It should be appreciated by those of skill inthe art that the techniques disclosed in the examples which followrepresent techniques discovered by the inventor to function well in thepractice of the invention. However, those of skill in the art should, inlight of the present disclosure, appreciate that many changes can bemade in the specific embodiments which are disclosed and still obtain alike or similar result without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention.

Example 1 Efficacy of Ingredients

Leontopodium alpinum extract, Halidrys siliquosa extract, vegetableamino acid (navy bean), Pinus pinaster extract, and Betula alba extracthave been shown to inhibit B16 melanogenesis using a bioassay thatanalyzes the effect of compounds on B16 melanogenesis. The endpoint ofthis assay is a spectrophotometric measurement of melanin production andcellular viability. A summary of these data are provided in Table 1.

TABLE 1* Ingredient* % inhibition** Leontopodium alpinum extract (1%)−43.75 Halidrys siliquosa extract (1%) −35.56106 Navy bean (1%) −14.512Pinus pinaster extract (1%) −38.94 Betula alba extract (1%) −47.47 *Eachingredient was obtained from the following suppliers: Leontopodiumalpinum extract was obtained from Carrubba Inc. under the trade nameEdelweiss Extract M5768. Halidrys siliquosa extract was obtained fromBiosil under the trade name Lightoceane ®. Navy bean was obtained fromCarrubba Inc. Pinus pinaster extract was obtained from Carrubba Inc.Betula alba extract was obtained from Carrubba Inc. **Control used wasKojic Acid 10 mM. % inhibition is calculated = (pigment levels after 3days treated-pigment level after 3 days of untreated control) 0)/pigmentlevel after 3 days of untreated control) × 100%). Therefore, a negative(−) indicates inhibition of melanogenesis.

The procedure used to obtain the data in Table 1 included the followingsteps:

-   -   Grow B16 cells to subconfluence from a frozen vial in T150        tissue culture flasks. Trypsinize 1 confluent T150 and resuspend        in DMEM. Seed 1% of cells in each 96 well plate (200 ul total        volume). Dilute test compounds to 1% in media. Once cells reach        ˜20% confluence, replace media with 200 ul diluted compounds.        Treat 2 wells/group. If a positive control is utilized, treat        cells with 1 mM Kojic acid. Incubate cells for 5-6 days (37° C.,        10% CO2). Read plate at 405 nm. Remove all media from cells. Add        100 ul diluted MTS reagent. Incubate 15-30 min (37° C., 10%        CO2). Read plate at 490 nm.

Halidrys siliquosa extract was found to have significant effectsinhibiting transfer of melanosomes using an in vitro assay that analyzesthe effect of test articles on the mechanism of melanosome transfer.Melanosome transfer is the process by which melanocytes deliver melaninto keratinocytes. Melanocytes synthesize approximately 0.5 μmmelanin-containing vesicles called melanosomes which are phagocytosed bykeratinocytes. This bioassay mimics this process by incubatingkeratinocytes with fluorescent microspheres of similar size tomelanosomes. Inhibition or promotion of microsphere uptake is correlatedwith uptake of normal melanosomes which is a critical process for skinpigmentation. A summary of these data are provided in Table 2.

TABLE 2* % Inhibition of Melanosome transfer** Halidrys siliquosaextract 0.1% −68.1138 Halidrys siliquosa extract 1% −60.9831 *Halidryssiliquosa extract was obtained from Biosil under the trade nameLightoceane ®. **Control used was the untreated set of cells. %Inhibition of Melanosome transfer = ((Mean Ex/Em ofSample/Viability*)/Mean Ex/Em of untreated Control) * 100 − 100.Therefore, a negative (−) indicates inhibition of melanosome transfer.

The procedure used to obtain the data in Table 2 included the followingsteps:

-   -   Grow HEKa cells to subconfluence from a frozen vial in 3×T75        tissue culture flasks (37° C., 5% CO2). Wash confluent T75s        (P1-P3) with HBSS then trypsinize with 1.5 ml trypsin for ˜4 min        at 37° C. Collect cells in 4 ml TNS, then spin in 15 ml conical        tubes. Resuspend in Epilife media and plate in black 96 well        plate. Dilute test compounds to appropriate concentration in        sterile water. Upon reaching 85% confluence replace media with        200 ml media with 20 ul diluted test compound overnight (37° C.,        5% CO2). Remove media and add replace with microsphere dilution.        Re-add diluted test material. Incubate overnight (37° C., 5%        CO2). Wash cells 4 times with PBS. Add 100 ul PBS per well. Read        Ex/Em at 480/520 on BioTek FLx800 fluorometric plate reader. Set        threshold sensitivity at 65. Remove PBS and replace with 100 ul        diluted MTS reagent to each well. Incubate 15-30 min (37° C., 5%        CO2). Read plate at 490 nm.

Hexylresorcinol was found to have significant effects inhibitingglycation of ribose to BSA using a ribose/BSA glycation assay. A summaryof these data are provided in Table 3.

TABLE 3* % Inhibition of Glycation** Hexylresorcinol 0.25% −76.11066773Hexylresorcinol 0.5% −67.86379356 Hexylresorcinol 1.0% −54.45597233*Hexylresorcinol was obtained from Syntheon Limited under the trade nameSynovea ® HR. **Control used was the untreated set of cells. %Inhibition of glycation = (glycation levels of treated-glycation levelsof untreated control)/glycation levels of untreated control) × 100%).Therefore, a negative (−) indicates inhibition of glycation.

The procedure used to obtain the data in Table 2 included the followingsteps:

-   -   Dilute 0.2M stock solution of ribose to 0.02M in phosphate        buffer. Dilute 20× stock solution of test ingredient to 2× in        0.02M ribose. Dilute 1M stock solution of AMG to 0.1M in 0.02M        ribose. Add 100 μl of 10% BSA solution into all wells. Add 100        μl of 0.02M ribose into control wells (ribose/BSA positive        control wells). Add 100 μl of 0.1M AMG (in 0.02M ribose) into        positive control wells. Add 100 μl of test ingredients (in 0.02M        ribose) into test wells. Seal plate and incubate at 42° C. for        24 hrs. Read in fluorometer at 360/460 ex/em.

Example 2 In Vitro Data

Hyperpigmentation in skin is caused by an increase in melanin, thesubstance in the body that is responsible for color (pigment). It ischaracterized by age spots, dark spots and patches of pigmentation.Vegetable amino acid (aka Navy bean) which is one of the activeingredients in this formula has been suggested to have skin brighteningbenefits based on in vitro testing. The inventors evaluated the effectsof vegetable amino acid as a key ingredient on hyperpigmentation.

The “treated” group applied Moisturizer comprising a proprietary baselotion formulation having no preservatives (“Vinny Base”) with 1%vegetable amino acid at least twice a day in the morning and at night,while the “untreated” group applied Moisturizer without 1% vegetableamino acid at least twice a day in the morning and at night.

Study design: 12 week randomized, single blind study. Sample size oftreatment group was 21 panelists, sample size of untreated group(control) was 9 panelists. The panelists were screened for melasma, agespots and dark spots. Visual grading was done at Day 0 and Weeks 4, 8,and 12 by Hanh Pham. Facial photographs were taken at Day 0 and Weeks 4,8, and 12 using Clarity Pro. Each panelist was asked to use the testproduct as the only facial product for 12 weeks. Basic Moisturizer andSPF 30 Sunscreen were provided, each of which comprised a Vinny Base(i.e., a proprietary base lotion formulation having no preservatives).

Visual Grading

The parameters used included:

-   -   Uneven Skin Tone: Assessment of the overall uniformity of skin        color (inclusive of both pigment & blotchiness).    -   Discrete Pigment: Distinct uniform areas of darker pigment, for        instance “age” or brown spots; freckles.    -   Mottled Pigment: Dark blotches that were larger and more        irregular in size and shape than discrete pigmentation. These        areas tend to become darker with sun exposure.    -   Scale: Global Photo aging Scale (0 to 9), where None (0), Mild        (1,2,3), Moderate (4,5,6), and Severe (7,8,9).

Instrumental Evaluation: The Clarity™ Pro Advanced Skin Advisor Systemwas used. The Clarity™ Pro is an imaging system with multispectrallighting for surface and sub-surface skin analysis. This imaging systemutilizes patented facial recognition technology to analyze various skinfeatures such as pigmentation, wrinkles, redness and acne. Clarity™ Prowas purchased in from BTBP Inc. The Pigmentation feature was utilized toanalyze the images in this study. This features comprises of Brightnessintensity, Pigmentation contrast and Pigmentation variation. Full facephotographs were captured—frontal and 45° lateral images (left andright) in multispectral lighting. Images were analyzed for Brightnessintensity, Pigment variation and Pigment contrast. VISIA-CR CanfieldImaging System was used as a backup, and full face photographscaptured—frontal images were captured only in standard and crosspolarized lighting. Images visually assessed for improvement in skinpigmentation.

Key Findings

Visual Grading Assessment: After 12 weeks, there was a significantimprovement seen in the treated group (with vegetable amino acid) whencompared to baseline. After 8 weeks, there was a significant differenceobserved between the treated and untreated group for Mottled pigmentonly.

-   -   Uneven skin tone (FIG. 1): There was significant improvement in        the treated group at weeks 4, 8 and 12 when compared to        baseline. There was significant improvement in the untreated        group at week 4 when compared to baseline. There was no        significant difference observed between the treated and        untreated groups at all time points.    -   Discrete Pigment (FIG. 2): There was significant improvement in        the treated group at weeks 4, 8 and 12 when compared to        baseline. There was no significant improvement in the untreated        group at all time points when compared to baseline. There was a        significant difference observed between the treated and        untreated groups at Baseline.    -   Mottled Pigment (FIG. 3): There was significant improvement in        the treated group at week 12 when compared to baseline. There        was no significant improvement in the untreated group at all        time points. There was a significant difference observed between        the treated and untreated groups at week 8.

Mean Percentage of Panelists showing Improvement over 12 weeks—Treated(FIG. 4). A significant number of panelists showed improvement in unevenskin tone at weeks 4, 8 and 12 as compared to baseline, a significantnumber of panelists showed improvement in discrete pigment at weeks 4, 8and 12 as compared to baseline, and a significant number of panelistsshowed improvement in mottled pigment at week 12 as compared tobaseline.

A significant number of panelists showed improvement in uneven skin toneat week 4 as compared to baseline in the untreated group, and the meanpercentage of panelists showing improvement in discrete and mottledpigment was not significant at all time points compared to baseline.

Clarity Pro Analysis: After 12 weeks, there was a significantimprovement seen in the treated group when compared to baseline. Therewas no significant difference observed between the treated and untreatedgroup at all time points for all features. Overall, results obtainedfrom visual grading assessment and quantitative Clarity Pro pigmentationanalysis are consistent with the images.

-   -   Brightness Intensity (FIG. 5): There was significant improvement        in the treated group at weeks 4, 8 and 12 when compared to        baseline. There was significant improvement in the untreated        group at week 12 when compared to baseline. There was no        significant difference between the treated and untreated groups        at all time points.    -   Pigmentation Variation (FIG. 6): There was significant        improvement in the treated group at weeks 8 and 12 when compared        to baseline. There was significant improvement in the untreated        group at weeks 8 and 12 when compared to baseline. There was        significant worsening in the untreated group at week 4 when        compared to baseline. There was no significant difference        observed between the treated and untreated groups at all time        points.    -   Pigmentation Contrast (FIG. 7): There was significant        improvement in the treated group at weeks 8 and 12 when compared        to baseline. There was no significant improvement in the        untreated group at all time points when compared to baseline.        There was no significant difference observed between the treated        and untreated groups at all time points.

Mean Percentage of panelists showing Improvement over 12 weeks—Treated(FIG. 8). A significant number of panelists showed improvement inbrightness intensity at all time points as compared to baseline, and asignificant number of panelists showed improvement in pigment variationand pigment contrast at weeks 8 and 12 as compared to baseline.

Mean Percentage of panelists showing Improvement over 12 weeks—Untreated(FIG. 9). A significant number of panelists showed improvement inbrightness intensity at week 4 as compared to baseline, a significantnumber of panelists showed improvement in pigment variation at week 8 ascompared to baseline, and a significant number of panelists showedimprovement in pigment contrast at weeks 8 and 12 as compared tobaseline.

Conclusions

-   -   Uneven skin tone and discrete pigment: There was a significant        improvement observed in the treated group at all time points        over 12 weeks as compared to baseline.    -   Mottled pigment: There was a significant improvement observed at        week 12 for the treated group as compared to baseline.    -   Brightness intensity (skin lightening): There was a significant        improvement observed in the treated group at all time points        over 12 weeks as compared to baseline.    -   Pigment Variation (overall skin tone evenness) and Pigment        Contrast (darkness of pigmentation): There was a significant        improvement observed in the treated group at weeks 8 and 12 as        compared to baseline.

Example 3 Formulations

Formulations having the ingredients from Example 1 were prepared asserums (Table 4 and Table 5), an eye cream (Table 6), a face freshener(Table 7), a moisturizer (Table 8), a night cream and a whitening cream(Table 9), a face and/or eye mask cloth (Table 10), a facial mask (Table11), and a cleanser (Table 12).

TABLE 4* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Leontopodium alpinumextract 0.01 Halidrys siliquosa extract 0.3 vegetable amino acids 0.3niacinamide 2 hexylresorcinol 0.3 Pinus pinaster extract 0.01 Betulaalba extract 0.01 water 78 butylene glycol 5 glycerin 4 silica 3cyclopentasiloxane 3 dimethicone 2 disodium EDTA 0.3 caprylyl glycol 0.31,2-hexanediol 0.2 hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin 0.07 potassium sorbate0.02 Excipients** q.s. *Formulation can be prepared by mixing theingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75° C. until homogenous.Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled to standing room temperature(20-25° C.). Further, and if desired, additional ingredients can beadded, for example, to modify the rheological properties of thecomposition. **Excipients were added to modify the rheologicalproperties of the composition. Alternatively, the amount of water can bevaried so long as the amount of water in the composition is at least 60%w/w, and preferably between 70 to 80% w/w.

TABLE 5* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Leontopodium alpinumextract 0.01 Halidrys siliquosa extract 0.3 vegetable amino acids 0.3niacinamide 2 hexylresorcinol 0.25 Pinus pinaster extract 0.01 Betulaalba extract 0.01 water 78 butylene glycol 5 glycerin 4 silica 3cyclopentasiloxane 3 dimethicone 2 disodium EDTA 0.3 caprylyl glycol 0.31,2-hexanediol 0.2 hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin 0.07 potassium sorbate0.02 ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP 0.4 copolymer polysorbate 200.3 acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate 0.2 crosspolymer triethanolamine 0.2xanthan gum 0.1 Opuntia tuna fruit extract (optional) 0.0005Excipients** q.s. *Formulation can be prepared by mixing the ingredientsin a beaker under heat 70-75° C. until homogenous. Subsequently, theformulation can be cooled to standing room temperature (20-25° C.).Further, and if desired, additional ingredients can be added, forexample, to modify the rheological properties of the composition.**Excipients were added to modify the rheological properties of thecomposition. Alternatively, the amount of water can be varied so long asthe amount of water in the composition is at least 60% w/w, andpreferably between 70 to 80% w/w.

TABLE 6* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Leontopodium alpinumextract 0.01 Halidrys siliquosa extract 0.3 vegetable amino acids 0.3niacinamide 2 Albizia julibrissin bark extract 1 water 75 glycerin 11dimethicone 4 octyldodecanol 0.7 triethanolamine 0.7 polyacrylamide 0.7disodium EDTA 0.1 laureth-7 0.1 cyclohexasiloxane 0.03 sodium benzoate0.01 iodopropynyl butylcarbamate 0.01 Excipients** q.s. *Formulation canbe prepared by mixing the ingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75° C.until homogenous. Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled tostanding room temperature (20-25° C.). Further, and if desired,additional ingredients can be added, for example, to modify therheological properties of the composition. **Excipients were added tomodify the rheological properties of the composition. Alternatively, theamount of water can be varied so long as the amount of water in thecomposition is at least 60% w/w, and preferably between 70 to 80% w/w.

TABLE 7* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Opuntia tuna fruitextract (optional) 0.001 Leontopodium alpinum extract 0.01 Halidryssiliquosa extract 0.3 niacinamide 1 water 78 butylene glycol 12biosaccharide gum-1 3 glycerin 1 PPG-5-ceteth-20 0.8 phenoxyethanol 0.5bis-PEG/PPG-20/20 dimethicone 0.3 hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin 0.1 benzylalcohol 0.1 Excipients** q.s. *Formulation can be prepared by mixing theingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75° C. until homogenous.Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled to standing room temperature(20-25° C.). Further, and if desired, additional ingredients can beadded, for example, to modify the rheological properties of thecomposition. **Excipients were added to modify the rheologicalproperties of the composition. Alternatively, the amount of water can bevaried so long as the amount of water in the composition is at least 60%w/w, and preferably between 70 to 80% w/w.

TABLE 8* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Leontopodium alpinumextract 0.01 Halidrys siliquosa extract 0.3 vegetable amino acids 0.3Lentinus edodes mycelium extract 1 niacinamide 2 water 58 isononylisononanoate 5 glycerin 5 octisalate 5 alcohol denatured 4 octocrylene 3avobenzone 3 butylene glycol 2 cyclopentasiloxane 2 cetearyl glucoside 2cetyl alcohol 1 dimethicone 1 glyceryl stearate 1 PEG-100 stearate 1phenoxyethanol 1 caprylyl glycol 0.4 ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp0.4 copolymer magnesium aluminum silicate 0.4 xanthan gum 0.2 disodiumEDTA 0.1 Excipients** q.s. *Formulation can be prepared by mixing theingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75° C. until homogenous.Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled to standing room temperature(20-25° C.). Further, and if desired, additional ingredients can beadded, for example, to modify the rheological properties of thecomposition. **Excipients were added to modify the rheologicalproperties of the composition. Alternatively, the amount of water can bevaried so long as the amount of water in the composition is at least 50%w/w, and preferably between 55 to 65% w/w.

TABLE 9* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Opuntia tuna fruitextract (optional) 0.001 Leontopodium alpinum extract 0.01 Halidryssiliquosa extract 0.3 vegetable amino acids 0.3 Lentinus edodes myceliumextract 1 niacinamide 2 water 64 petrolatum 7 glycerin 6 octyldodecyloleate 3 pentylene glycol 3 hydrogenated polydecene 2 glyceryl stearate2 arachidyl alcohol 1 PEG-100 stearate 1 ammoniumacryloyldimethyltaurate/vp 1 copolymer cetearyl alcohol 1 benzyl alcohol1 synthetic wax 0.6 behenyl alcohol 0.6 cetearyl glucoside 0.5microcrystalline wax/cire microcristalline 0.4 phenoxyethanol 0.4arachidyl glucoside 0.3 xanthan gum 0.3 ceteareth-20 0.2 disodium EDTA0.2 tocopheryl acetate 0.1 triethanolamine 0.1 Excipients** q.s.*Formulation can be prepared by mixing the ingredients in a beaker underheat 70-75° C. until homogenous. Subsequently, the formulation can becooled to standing room temperature (20-25° C.). Further, and ifdesired, additional ingredients can be added, for example, to modify therheological properties of the composition. **Excipients were added tomodify the rheological properties of the composition. Alternatively, theamount of water can be varied so long as the amount of water in thecomposition is at least 60% w/w, and preferably between 60 to 70% w/w.

TABLE 10* % Concentration Ingredient (by weight) Opuntia tuna fruitextract (optional) 0.0005 Leontopodium alpinum extract 0.01 Halidryssiliquosa extract 0.3 vegetable amino acids 0.3 Lentinus edodes myceliumextract 0.1 niacinamide 2 water 73 glycerin 8.2 butylene glycol 5divinyldimethicone/dimethicone copolymer 3 methyl gluceth-20 3dimethicone 1 biosaccharide gum-1 1 phenoxyethanol 0.5 dimethicone/vinyldimethicone crosspolymer 0.5 triethanolamine 0.2 acrylates/C10-30 alkylacrylate crosspolymer 0.2 panthenol 0.2 C12-13 pareth-23 0.2 C12-13pareth-3 0.2 disodium EDTA 0.1 dipotassium glycyrrhizate 0.1 xanthan gum0.1 Excipients** q.s. *Formulation can be prepared by mixing theingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75° C. until homogenous.Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled to standing room temperature(20-25° C.). Further, and if desired, additional ingredients can beadded, for example, to modify the rheological properties of thecomposition. **Excipients were added to modify the rheologicalproperties of the composition. The composition is a liquid that may beapplied to a facial cloth in a foil packet.

TABLE 11* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Leontopodium alpinumextract 0.01 Halidrys siliquosa extract 0.3 vegetable amino acids 0.3Lentinus edodes mycelium extract 1 niacinamide 2 water 67 glycerin 12.3titanium dioxide 7 butylene glycol 5 biosaccharide gum-1 1polyacrylamide 0.9 hydrolyzed jojoba esters 0.8 propylene glycol 0.6C13-14 isoparaffin 0.4 diazolidinyl urea 0.3 sodium polyacrylate 0.2benzyl alcohol 0.2 laureth-7 0.1 jojoba esters 0.1 methylparaben 0.1Excipients** q.s. *Formulation can be prepared by mixing the ingredientsin a beaker under heat 70-75° C. until homogenous. Subsequently, theformulation can be cooled to standing room temperature (20-25° C.).Further, and if desired, additional ingredients can be added, forexample, to modify the rheological properties of the composition.**Excipients were added to modify the rheological properties of thecomposition.

TABLE 12* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Opuntia tuna fruitextract (optional) 0.0005 Leontopodium alpinum extract 0.001 Halidryssiliquosa extract 0.03 vegetable amino acids 0.01 water 28 glycerin 20potassium stearate 18 dipropylene glycol 6.8 sorbitol 4.7 potassiummyristate 3.3 myristic acid 3 glyceryl stearate SE 2.5 PEG-60 glycerylisostearate 2.5 stearic acid 2.1 sodium methyl cocoyl taurate 1.7 PEG-321.4 potassium laurate 1.3 glycol stearate 1 benzyl alcohol 0.9 PEG-6 0.9polyquaternium-7 0.5 lauric acid 0.3 sodium chloride 0.3 PEG-4 laurate0.2 ethylene brassylate 0.1 Excipients** q.s. *Formulation can beprepared by mixing the ingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75° C.until homogenous. Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled tostanding room temperature (20-25° C.). Further, and if desired,additional ingredients can be added, for example, to modify therheological properties of the composition. **Excipients were added tomodify the rheological properties of the composition.

* * *

All of the skin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods disclosedand claimed in this specification can be made and executed without undueexperimentation in light of the present disclosure. While theskin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods of this invention havebeen described in terms of particular embodiments, it will be apparentto those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to theskin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods and in the steps or inthe sequence of steps of the method described herein without departingfrom the concept, spirit and scope of the invention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method for whitening or lightening skin,the method comprising topically applying to skin in need thereof acomposition comprising an effective amount of a liquid aqueous navy beanextract having amino acids, wherein the composition whitens or lightensthe skin.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is appliedto hyperpigmented skin.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition is applied to a freckle or dark spot on skin.
 4. The methodof claim 1, wherein the composition is applied to skin having an unevenskin tone from excess melanin pigmentation.
 5. The method of claim 1,wherein the composition inhibits melanogenesis in the skin.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises 0.001 to 5.0 wt. %of the aqueous navy bean extract.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition further includes niacinamide.
 8. The method of claim 1,wherein the composition further includes an effective amount ofhexylresorcinol to inhibit glycation in the skin.
 9. The method of claim1, wherein the composition is an emulsion.
 10. The method of claim 9,wherein the emulsion is an oil-in-water emulsion.
 11. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the composition is an aqueous solution.
 12. The methodof claim 1, wherein the composition is a cream or lotion.
 13. The methodof claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises a chelating agent,a moisturizing agent, a preservative, a thickening agent, and anemulsifier.